Ipswich: Flood defences given green light – could open way to thousands of jobs

AROUND 4,000 jobs could be created in Ipswich after construction to build a tidal barrier to improve flood protection in the town this year was given the go-ahead.

A Department for Environment, Flood and Rural Affairs statement said: “A tidal barrier in Ipswich will improve flood protection to 10 hectares of development land attracting more business to the area and creating 4,000 jobs.”

A total of 93 defences across the country have been given the go-ahead to begin construction this year.

Environment Secretary Owen Paterson said: “The 93 schemes given the green light today will bring huge relief to tens of thousands of homes and businesses that have lived with the fear of flood waters hitting their doors.”